Argemone mexicana L.

Mexican prickly poppy, Mexican prickly poppy, Yellow prickly poppy

Synonym(s): Argemone leiocarpa

The yellow prickly poppy, 8Ė18 inches tall, has a smooth or slightly prickly stem. The deeply lobed leaves are a whitish green, and the upper ones clasp the stem between their two lower lobes. The upper surface of the leaf is smooth. Flowers are yellow, about 2 1/2 inches across. The sap from this plant is bright yellow.

This thistle-leaved species occurs from Virginia and Tennessee to Florida and Texas and has escaped from cultivation northward.

Growing Conditions

Benefit

Warning: Seeds and other plant parts can be toxic if ingested. Sensitivity to a toxin varies with a personís age, weight, physical condition, and individual susceptibility. Children are most vulnerable because of their curiosity and small size. Toxicity can vary in a plant according to season, the plantís different parts, and its stage of growth; and plants can absorb toxic substances, such as herbicides, pesticides, and pollutants from the water, air, and soil. Conspicuous Flowers: yes